Receiving Income in Retirement

As retirement approaches, it’s important to understand the options for receiving your money before you leave your job. Fortunately, several options are available so you can select the option that’s best for you.

Staying put

You don’t have to start taking distributions at the beginning of your retirement. If you’re in a good position and can continue to leave your money invested, you can stay put in your deferred comp plan. Your money can potentially continue to grow until you’re required to take a distribution at age 70½. In fact, there are many additional reasons to keep your money invested in the plan.

Of course, investing involves market risk, including possible loss of the money invested. But, as we have throughout your participation in the Plan, your Retirement Specialist will help you understand how to deal with and adjust for market risk through retirement.

Getting paid in retirement

If you’re ready to start withdrawing your money, choose the option that’s right for you.

Systematic withdrawal – This option allows your investments to stay active while you receive regular payments. You have two payment options:

Receive a fixed amount at the frequency you select (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually) until your account balance reaches zero.

Choose how long and how frequently (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually) you would like to be paid – payment amounts will vary based on the performance of your investments and will continue until your account balance reaches zero.

You can continue to manage and change your investment options while receiving systematic withdrawals. Since market risk is involved, you may not be paid as much or as long as you originally expected, depending on the performance of your investments.

Lump Sum – With a lump sum withdrawal you receive the entire balance of your account, and the account is closed. Unless the money is rolled over into another qualifying plan within 60 days of receipt, it will be taxed based on your tax bracket. Keep in mind that receiving a lump sum may push you into a higher tax bracket. Qualifying Roth 457 withdrawals may be taken tax-free.

Partial Lump Sum – With a partial lump sum withdrawal, you can part of your account balance as a lump sum, and leave the remainder in your account. Again, your money can stay in your account, regardless of your employment status.

Fixed annuity – An annuity is a contract issued by an insurance company. When you purchase an annuity, you can decide whether to be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. All annuities are not the same, so it’s important to learn the differences. For example, some annuities allow beneficiaries, and some do not.

Get the help you need

Talk with one of our Retirement Specialists if you have questions about receiving your money in retirement. Neither Nationwide nor its representatives may offer tax or legal advice. You should consult your own counsel before making any decisions about plan withdrawals.

Retirement Specialists provide information for educational purposes only. This information is not meant to be used as investment advice. Retirement Specialists are Registered Representatives of Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, member FINRA.